"Before you all head off, I wanted to reiterate that half of class time over the course of this year will be devoted to your independent projects. I'll need to know which beasts you plan on studying by the end of the week, so I can ensure I schedule a class session for each creature. Remember that you are only allowed to select a beast for this project—no magical beings—and we're only selecting from beasts classified as a Level 4 by the Ministry of Magic." Charlie looked around at his seventh year students ringed around him, pleased that they all seemed excited and engaged. "Any questions? No. Then I will see you all on Friday."

"Excuse me, Professor, may I have a word?"

Charlie braced himself as he turned around, unsure of what to expect. He'd thought that after their conversation earlier that week, Draco would be keeping his distance. Yet here he was, looking nervous, but determined, the sunlight glinting gold and lovely off his fair hair.

"What can I help you with?"

Draco bit his lip, Charlie tried not to remember what those lips felt like wrapped around his cock. "It's about the project."

"Oh?"

"I know that you said we could only choose from the Level 4 class of beasts, but I was really hoping I could study dragons."

Something twinged inside of Charlie at the mention of dragons, his lifelong passion. He wasn't quite sure why, but he liked the idea of sharing something more than physical with the pretty Draco Malfoy.

"Dragons are very dangerous." Amazing. Exhilarating. Electrifying.

"I know. But...I was named after the dragon constellation, you know. I've always been fascinated by them. I can choose a lower class beast if you want, but I'd really, really like to study dragons. And it's not like Hogwarts hasn't brought dragons here before…"

It was a terrible idea. It was far too dangerous to bring a dragon to the grounds for a small class of students. He did miss being around dragons, though, and it was damned difficult to look into those sterling eyes and say anything other than yes.

Charlie somehow managed to restrain himself from kissing Draco breathless and instead flashed him a wide smile. He was watching Draco avidly, so he caught the slight dilation of Draco's pupils and the hitch in his breath. Draco's gaze traced the curves of Charlie's mouth before he visibly gained control. He straightened, the tops of his cheeks dusted pink.

It was time to release Draco before Charlie lost control. He opened his mouth to dismiss him. "I'm not sure if you're aware, but before I was a professor I worked on a dragon reserve in Romania for a number of years. I'm happy to be a resource if you'd like." Charlie swallowed a groan at the foolish words. He was supposed to be staying away from the boy, not coming up with further excuses to see him. Though surely, as a professor, he should be doing everything in his power to help his students learn.

Draco's eyes widened, before a small, private smile stole across his face. "I may just take you up on that."

Charlie felt wild and reckless, like he was back on the reserve, facing down an Opaleye, adrenaline surging through his veins.

Dammit, Grace!! I do not need another pair to read but fuck if these two aren't sizzling hot! I always like Charlie as a partner for H or D before they eventually get together, even if I haven't read much like that. You are sucking me in!!!!!